Tinubu Seeks Amendment to Constitution for State Police

President Bola Tinubu has submitted a bill to the House of Representatives seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution to provide a legal framework for the establishment of state police across Nigeria.

In a letter dated June 15, 2026, and read by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas during Tuesday’s plenary, Tinubu described the proposal as a cornerstone of his administration’s security reforms.

He urged lawmakers to give expedited consideration to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026.

The President explained that the legislation aims to create “a constitutional pathway for the establishment of State Police Services” to strengthen Nigeria’s response to escalating security challenges.

He noted that the bill builds on earlier work by the House while adding safeguards to ensure effective operation of a dual policing system.

Tinubu emphasized that decentralising policing is a critical step in reorganising Nigeria’s security architecture, expressing confidence that the National Assembly would act swiftly.

Nigeria currently operates a single, centralised police force under the 1999 Constitution. However, rising insecurity including terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence has intensified calls for state police.

Regional outfits such as Amotekun in the South‑West and Ebube Agu in the South‑East have already been established to complement federal agencies.

Supporters argue that state police would improve intelligence gathering, response time, and community policing. Critics, however, warn of potential abuse by governors for political purposes.

If passed by both chambers of the National Assembly and ratified by at least 24 state Houses of Assembly, the bill would establish a dual policing system, allowing both federal and state governments to operate constitutionally recognised police services.

The proposal is expected to reignite debate among lawmakers and stakeholders over the structure, funding, oversight, and safeguards necessary for state police.

Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday

Advertise on NOP NIGERIA to reach thousands of our daily users